Can You Compare Spray Foam Insulation to Blown In?

Many homeowners make the mistake of trying to compare spray foam insulation to blown in insulation like fiberglass or cellulose, but the truth is, there really is no comparison. The words may have a similar connotation, to those who are less well-informed about the topic; after all, both involve spraying or blowing a product into an enclosed area of the building envelope, in order to insulate the home.

However, that’s where the similarities end. While blown in insulation is generally made from some kind of fibrous material, such as cellulose, fiberglass or mineral wool, spray foam insulation like Icynene is made from spray polyurethane foam. Icynene spray foam, because of its specific type of material, is able to create an effective air barrier wherever it is applied. This is due to its ability to expand nearly 100 times its original size, within seconds of application. In contrast, any type of blown in insulation may be able to fill tiny cracks and gaps, but it still allows for some air to pass through, which can result in air leaks, which can contribute to higher monthly heating and cooling bills.